Final answer:
When old information interferes with the recall of newly learned information, such as reaching for a windshield wiper switch on the incorrect side due to past habits, this is an example of proactive interference, which is linked to procedural memory.
Step-by-step explanation:
When you reach for the windshield wiper switch on the left side of the steering wheel in a car where it's located on the right, you are demonstrating proactive interference. This type of interference occurs when old information hinders the recall of newly learned information. It's an example of how your previous experiences can affect your ability to adapt to new situations, which is tied to your procedural memory, a type of long-term memory for skilled actions.
Procedural memory allows you to perform tasks without actively thinking about them, like driving a car. However, when you switch to a new car with different controls, the established memory of the control positions can interfere with learning the new arrangement. This is proactive interference in action and is not related to iconic memory, change blindness, habitual interference, or retroactive interference, which are different cognitive processes.